Ghirardelli Square

If you think Ghirardelli Square is just for out-of-town visitors, think again. Whether you go to sip Wattle Creek Winery's delicious chardonnay in the sun, or simply stop by to take in some live music outdoors, Ghirardelli Square is a well-kept secret spot where locals can have a total blast–especially in the summer months!

7x7 celebrated our annual Best of SF (#bestof7x7) June 2013 issue with an exclusive event at the city's iconic Ghirardelli Square. Hundreds of attendees—from our pages, partners, followers, advertisers and friends—gathered to bring the highly-anticipated issue to life.

On June 7, 7x7 and Ghirardelli Square staged the annual celebration of the Best of San Francisco. Hundreds of guests enjoyed warm breezes at an exclusive event with several cherished partners, delicous bites, and specialty cocktails.

On June 3, 7x7 gathered some of San Francisco's brightest and brilliant stars to celebrate our picks for the best people, places and things in the city! Co-hosted by Ghirardelli Square and Fairmont Heritage Place, the event was blessed with absolutely gorgeous weather, while guests enjoyed stunning views of the bay and thrilled to the sounds of Best of the City winners Wallpaper!

The time has come again. Men will be in skin-tight bodysuits (for the mere reason of air-resistance, of course) and performers in glittery outfits galore. Yes, the Winter Olympics 2010 festivities are nearing, and Ghirardelli Square seems to be as excited as we are! Starting February 12, they're holding themed activities that will reassure your embarrassing obsession.

Halloween is no longer the only day of the year where you can dress up as Apolo Ohno and get candy for it. The Pub will have a viewing party of the Opening Ceremonies on February 12. Viewers are encouraged, and even rewarded, for dressing up as your favorite Olympic tribute. The prize? Gold, Silver, and Bronze shot specials. Genius.

As a bonafide chocolate connoisseur (hey, I'm only female), it's no surprise that the first event that gets jotted down--in pen--in my planner each new calendar year is the annual Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival.

In its 14th year, this smorgasbord for the tastebuds kicks off Saturday afternoon with chef demonstrations, chocolate and wine pairings, and, most importantly, tastings galore. The magnum opus of the event, however, is the Ice Cream Sundae Eating Contest at 2pm both days: with earthquakes (adults) up on Saturday, and children allowed both days.

Currently reading, watching, listening to: "Reading The Rachel Papers by Martin Amis (it's making me super neurotic), watching Arrested Development all the way through for the second time and listening to Grizzly Bear, Passion Pit, Italo Disco and a lot of '60s Top 40 hits."